Pasadena Public Health Recommendations to Protect Against Measles

PASADENA, Calif. - The Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) encourages everyone not vaccinated against measles to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Routine vaccination or vaccination prior to travel is key to protecting yourself and the community from measles. As of February 3, 2026, there are no measles cases among Pasadena residents in 2026. While there are no confirmed reports in Pasadena, there are multiple measles cases in neighboring jurisdictions, including Los Angeles County and Orange County over the last 7 days. PPHD continues to closely monitor developments and remains prepared to follow up on any local exposures.

"With increasing measles activity across the nation and region, I urge Pasadena residents to take steps now to protect their health and the health of their loved ones," said Manuel Carmona, Director of Public Health. "Getting vaccinated remains the most effective way to protect yourself and prevent the spread of disease in our community."

Measles is a highly contagious, serious airborne disease caused by a virus that can lead to severe complications and even death. Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus, and common symptoms include:

• High fever (may spike to more than 104° F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Rash

Measles complications occur in up to 40% of those infected; and may include blindness, hearing loss, pneumonia, seizures, and meningitis. There are no antiviral drugs specifically approved to treat measles and treatment is supportive care.

Measles can be serious in all age groups. However, there are several groups that are more likely to suffer from measles complications; including adults older than 20 years of age, children younger than 5 years of age, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems such as those with leukemia or an HIV infection. PPHD works closely with Pasadena's public and private schools to ensure they receive up-to-date information on measles prevention and protection. For more information, visit the Measles Symptoms and Complications Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

Recently, the number of measles cases have increased to dangerously high levels nationwide. As of January 30, 2026, the CDC reported 588 confirmed measles cases in 17 states, with 3 of those measles cases reported among international visitors in the United States. The number of cases is significantly outpacing the 2,267 cases reported by the CDC in all of calendar year 2025.

California is experiencing elevated measles activity compared to prior years and all cases this year occurred in unvaccinated persons or persons who had unknown vaccination status. Nine confirmed measles cases have been reported in the state this year as of February 3, 2026, compared to 25 cases in all of 2025. Over the last 7 days, Los Angeles County has confirmed three cases and Orange County has confirmed two cases. Most measles cases in Los Angeles County are related to travel, internationally or domestically to locations where a large outbreak is ongoing. While measles can lead to death, there have not been any reported deaths in California this year.

"Receiving the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles and protect the community," said Acting Health Officer, Dr. Parveen Kaur. "The recent measles outbreaks show how important it is for anyone who has not been immunized, to receive the vaccine."

One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective against measles, and two doses is 97% effective. Measles can be prevented if 95% or more of the community is vaccinated with two doses of the vaccine. Children should get their first MMR vaccine at 12 through 15 months old. The second dose can be given as early as 28 days after the first dose, but it is usually administered from 4 to 6 years old. Individuals who were not fully vaccinated as a young child should consult with their doctor to determine if one or two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended. Doses should be separated at least 28 days apart. If you are uncertain about your vaccination status, reach out to your healthcare provider.

Plan for Safe Travel

Anyone who plans to travel who is not vaccinated against measles is at increased risk of getting infected. Consult with your doctor about your vaccination status prior to travel, especially if you are travelling internationally or to an area with an active outbreak. For more information on a country's measles risk level, visit the Travelers' Health Centers CDC website. An early dose of the MMR vaccine is recommended for children who are 6 to 11 months of age traveling internationally or to an area with an outbreak at least two weeks before departing.

After returning from your travel, monitor for signs and symptoms of measles for three weeks. If you or your child develop symptoms, immediately contact your healthcare provider and inform the health care facility about your travel and symptoms prior to entering the facility. For more information on measles prevention while traveling, visit the Planning for Travel CDC website.

Notify a Healthcare Provider If You Are at Higher Risk

If you think you have been exposed, contact and notify your health care provider as soon as possible for guidance and next steps. This is especially important if you are pregnant, the exposed person is an infant, you have a weakened immune system, or you are not immunized.

Check Your Immunization Status

Adults who were vaccinated before 1968 should consult their healthcare provider and ask about getting another MMR vaccine, since the vaccine they received at that time may no longer be effective. If you are an adult who is uncertain when or if you were vaccinated and cannot access your vaccination records, talk to your healthcare provider to see if you can receive the MMR vaccine. According to the CDC, there is no harm in getting another MMR vaccine if you have already received one.

Get Vaccinated

Most health insurances cover the cost of the MMR vaccine. Insured persons should check with their doctor or local pharmacy to see what vaccines are offered. Uninsured or underinsured children and adults can access free or low-cost vaccines at clinics enrolled in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) and Vaccines for Adults (VFA) program.

Visit the Pasadena Public Health Department (1845 N. Fair Oaks Ave.) Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. to receive an MMR vaccine. To make an appointment, call (626) 744-6121. Walk-ins are also welcomed. For a list of clinics that offer free or low-cost immunizations for persons who are uninsured or underinsured, call 2-1-1 or visit the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health clinic locations website.